Dance: The Illustrated History of Dance in New Zealand by Tara Jahn-Werner

This gorgeous book presents the broad spectrum of ballet and dance historically in this country - where it has come from, what has influenced the art-form, who has been involved, and who are the present movers and shakers.

It's beautiful to look at, with striking photos and ephemera, attractive poster designs, programme covers plus illustrations. There's great information and anecdotes on personalities, plus interesting 'facts' in separate breakout boxes.

Its themes include the influence of overseas companies on dance in New Zealand from 1913 to the present; the advent of a national identity with the establishment of the Royal New Zealand Ballet; the emergence of modern dance in the 1930s and the contemporary dance scene today. Each chapter features a discussion on dance styles, the vigour of the artistic personalities involved and the social milieu in which they operated.

A very thorough and lively examination of the dance scene in New Zealand.

Hardback, 2008, 310pages, ex-lib in very good condition